Being Present And Meeting The Emotional Needs Of Your Dog While On A Walk

 

Sorry cat lovers, but the topic today is for the dog owners out there. However, the next one will be about all things cats. [Insert cats giving me dirty looks. Yeah, I see you!]

Communication is the basis of any healthy, successful relationship. Fostering this bond is based on mutual respect, where each party is heard and met where they are. Communicating with your animal companion allows just that. But not all communication is done verbally. Did you know that everyone has an intuitive ability to connect telepathically? It’s true! This innate ability often falls away as a mode of communication when the verbal language is focused on and strengthened. Through repetition, verbal language often becomes the strongest. Do you want to tap into your telepathic skills and enhance your bond? One way to connect with your loving companion is to go on a walk. 

Before you head out, stand calmly and breathe in and out several times. Breathe in and say, “I am.” Then exhale and say, “Calm.” Do this through several cycles of breathing. Then visualize your animal’s heart and your heart each connected by a cord. You will keep this cord and connection through the entire walk, and any other time you feel the need to be one with your animal. You can send thoughts and love to your dog without saying a word. For instance, send out the words calm and loving. Or peace and joy.

Walks are for your dog to collect information and for meandering. If you want to walk for exercise with your furry friend, that is an entirely different walk. Being present on a walk means you will not be multitasking. Animals are here to remind us to be conscious and live in the moment like they do. They show us how to slow down and take life in as opposed to rushing through the day unconsciously. Be present with your dog on a walk by not having a phone conversation, not listening to a podcast, and not wearing headphones. Allow enough time for the walk so your companion can take their time to sniff and be curious. Let your dog dictate the pace and direction of the walk. They know what they are doing and will surprise you with the different routes they take to make the same old routine new and interesting again. Try not to control them or tell them what to do. Allow this to be their time to live their life and make as many “safe” decisions as possible. 

Be patient and loving. Watch what your pal is doing with their body movements, their adorable walk, and sense their energy. Use this time to let them know how you feel about them with statements like, “You are doing a great job!” Keep walking and having fun. Focus on this time to be present and build a deeper bond and relationship. You can use the street corners or a stop sign to gently teach your dog to sit and wait. 

 Please be careful not to take your frustrations out on your animal friend. Never yell, pull, smack, force, dominate, control, or manipulate another living thing. Positive reinforcements are the only way to arrive at mutual respect. 

 Always check the weather temperatures before a walk or outing. The only two ways animals can perspire is through their paws (which presents a problem if the pavement is hot ) and by panting. If you are being present and aware, you can monitor their body by watching for excessive panting, fatigue, and gum color. Some dogs will keep playing ball until they drop; others will keep walking because you are. Being present allows you to make smart, healthy decisions for your best friend. Here is the best part; because walks with your animal companions are so frequent, your bond continues to deepen and grow.